If a tooth is chipped, weak, or worn down, chewing can hurt. You may even stop smiling the way you want to. A dental crown from Heritage Dental can protect the tooth and help it feel normal again. A crown is a dental restoration that fits over your tooth. It can also improve a tooth’s shape and color, so your smile looks more even.
What Is a Dental Crown?
You can place crowns on a natural tooth or on top of a dental implant. When used with an implant, the crown is the part that looks and works like a tooth.
What to Expect During a Dental Crown Procedure in Katy, TX
What to Expect During a Dental Crown Procedure in Katy, TX
- We begin with an exam and may take X-rays. This helps our dental team check for deep decay, infection, or damage below the surface.
- Next, we numb the tooth and nearby gum, so you stay comfortable. You may feel pressure while we work, but you shouldn’t feel pain.
- Then Dr. Hieu Nguyen or Dr. Tran shapes the tooth so the crown can fit. If the tooth is missing a large area, he may build it up first to create a strong base. After that, we take an impression or digital scan and custom-make your crown to fit your tooth and bite.
- Many patients wear a temporary crown while a dental lab makes the final one.
- When it’s ready, we remove the temporary, check the fit and color, and bond the crown in place.
Reasons for Needing a Dental Crown
- A large cavity that’s too big for a filling
- A chipped or broken tooth
- A weak tooth with old, worn fillings
- A tooth that has had a root canal (crowns help protect it)
- A tooth that’s worn down from grinding or clenching
- To support a dental bridge
- To improve the shape or color of a tooth
Types of Crowns
- Porcelain or ceramic crowns look very natural, so they’re often used for front teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns have a strong metal base with a tooth-colored layer on top, which makes them a good choice for back teeth.
- Zirconia crowns are a strong ceramic option that works well for molars and for patients who grind their teeth.
- Gold or metal alloy crowns are very durable and can last a long time, but they’re more noticeable because of the metal color.
Caring for Your Crown
With good daily care, a crown can last for many years. Brush twice a day, floss once a day, and keep up with regular cleanings. The crown itself can’t get a cavity, but the tooth under it can. Keeping the crown’s edge clean helps lower your risk of decay and gum swelling.
Schedule Your Visit
If you think you may need a crown, start with an exam. Dr. Nguyen, Dr. Tran, and our dental team at Heritage Dental can examine the tooth, explain your options, and help you choose the solution that fits your needs. To schedule a dental crown consultation in Katy, TX, call our office at (832) 437-5895.